How and when to take gabapentin

Each capsule of gabapentin contains 100mg, 300mg or 400mg of gabapentin. Each tablet contains 600mg or 800mg of gabapentin.

If you're taking gabapentin as a liquid, it usually contains 50mg in 1ml of liquid. Always check the label.

Dosage for epilepsy

The usual dose for:

• adults and older children (aged 12 and over) is 900mg to 3,600mg a day, split into 3 doses
• younger children (aged 6 to 12 years) – varies depending on their weight

Dosage for nerve pain

The usual dose to treat nerve pain in adults is 900mg to 3,600mg a day, split into 3 doses.

Changes to your dose

To reduce the risk of side effects, your doctor will prescribe a low dose to start with and then increase it over a few days.

When you find a dose that suits you, it will usually stay the same.

How to take it

Swallow gabapentin capsules and tablets whole with a drink of water or juice. Do not chew them.

You can take gabapentin with or without food.

Try to space your doses evenly through the day. For example, you could take it first thing in the morning, early afternoon and at bedtime.

If you or your child are taking a liquid, it will come with a plastic syringe or spoon to measure your dose. If you do not have a syringe or spoon, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not use a kitchen spoon, as it will not measure the right amount.